Kenora councilors feel there needs to be another public washroom in Keewatin.
Councillor Kelsie Van Belleghem put forward a Notice of Motion to investigate the feasibility of a composting toilet in Keewatin Central Park.
Director of Engineering and Infrastructure Greg Breen says it would cost about $265,000, while a conventional plumbed toilet is about $250,000.
“It’s actually more cost-effective to proceed down a path with a traditional-plumbed toilet for the area,” Breen told council recently.
“There are also services available on a nearby street that could be run underground to support it.”
Councillor Graham Chaze is the only member of council to speak out against the expense.
“It’s a ‘nice-to-have’, not essential, in my opinion. Given the budget implications and where we’re at, I’d rather just defer this till next year. But right now, we’re struggling to make ends meet with essential services and more higher priority items.”
Van Belleghem says some of the money could come from reserves and the city can see if there is funding from either level of government for the washroom.
(File photo)
